Jenn Hopkins Photography

CHECK OUT THE NEW BLOG!

2010-10-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

It's Official! The new blog is up and running!! Please make sure to change your bookmarks to my new blog link at www.jennhopkinsphotography.com/blog. I'm so excited to finally launch my new brand and site!! From now on, I will be posting only on the newest blog. So come on over!!!

Bradley & Mary Candace are Married!

2010-10-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

It was a hot North Carolina summer, about 6 years ago. She was a teenager. Long blond hair to the middle of her back, leaning down by the fence that divided the racetrack from the grandstands. He had walked over from pit row, and wrapped his fingers through the chain link, just to be closer to her. She giggled, and tossed her hair. He looked away with the slightest hint of a blush, as she walked away. When she turned to leave, with a little wave and a smile, I noticed her brown leather belt was burned with the name"Mary Candace" on the back. I knew right then and there that there was no way my cousin would be without her for the rest of his life. They were 15. I was in town for the summer, at the Racetrack about to watch my cousin race for the checkered flag the first time I met Mary Candace. She was so young and so beautiful, and so kind. A perfect match for my handsome, and sweet Cousin Bradley. As I watched Mary Candace walk down the aisle, the scene above is all I could remember. They were teenagers, who grew up in age, and in their love for each other. Ready now to make a home and a life with each other. Bradley and Mary Candace, I was incredibly honored to photograph your wedding, but I am even more honored to have watched your love for each other grow. Love you both!!

The Beautiful Ladies...

After the ceremony we headed to Mary Candace's Childhood home, for the Reception. I love photographing home receptions. It makes them so personal, intimate, and warm.

I was at Mary Candace's house a few days prior to the wedding, and when I walked up to her barn, her horses popped their heads out at me. The minute I saw that I envisioned this exact portrait. So glad those horses helped me achieve it!

Some Reception details.

And they lived happily, ever, after...

The E. Family! Jacksonville Portrait Photographer

2010-10-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

The E. Family, so adorable, so fun, so stylish!!! Loved photographing this family at the beautiful dock near their home. I think it was a perfect Jacksonville setting to show off what their family is all about. Being together, and loving every minute of it. E. Family, thank you so much for letting me photograph your adorable children!!! Hope to see you all soon!

Tread is 6 months old!!

2010-09-27T00:53:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this little guy is already 6 months old!!! You may remember this precious guy from his newborn session. I can't even handle the cuteness of this boy. The cheeks, oh those cheeks!! I had such a good time photographing sweet baby Tread and his Mommy a few weeks ago down in Orlando. Tread's Mommy and I go way back, and everytime I see her with her baby boy is makes my heart warm. Hillary, so, so, glad you asked me to photograph your sweet baby boy. Can't wait to watch him grow!!

So excited I got to sneak Tread's Grandma in for some photos too!

I'll leave you with this last little drop of cuteness. I love this photo. My favorite part, besides Hillary's amazing laugh, how Tread's touching her face...precious.

The adorable K. Family!

2010-09-27T00:42:00.000-07:00

I got an email a few months back from Rebecca, asking me to take their family photos. I get emails all the time asking to take families photos, but this family is different. Rebecca is a very talented photographer all on her own, so I always get a tad nervous to photograph other photographers and their families. Since we always have in mind exactly what we want in a session. Rebecca was so fantastic, all she wanted me to do was capture her family, however I saw fit. I had so much fun walking the streets of St. Augustine photographing them together, and chatting camera talk as we walked along. Rebecca and Brady are such awesome parents, and they love Coen so completely. I adored photographing them. K. Family, thank you all so much for trusting your memories to me :-) It was an incredible honor.

While Coen took a litte cheerio break we took some time for just Brady and Rebecca.

Sarah and Andrew are Engaged! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-09-21T23:02:00.000-07:00

I let out a little squeal when Sarah mentioned they wanted to do their engagement pics by the graffiti walls down in 5 points. I love when a couple is fun, and original, and wants to totally portray that in their engagement images. Sarah and Andrew had each other cracking up the entire time. I loved that they would go from intense passion, to intense laughter in just a few clicks of the camera. These two are real, genuine, down to earth, and crazy about each other. Sarah and Andrew, I cannot wait until your wedding! Its going to be a total blast to photograph!!!

Hello Fierceness!!! How hot are these two!

Frank and Debbie are Married! {Jacksonville Wedding Photographer}

2010-09-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

Ceremony: St. George Antiochian Church
Reception: Maggianos
Brides Dress: Nicole Miller
Bridesmaids Dresses: White House Black Market

"We are so in love, like, crazy in love"...these were the first words Debbie told me about her and Franks relationship. I couldnt have said it better myself. I am so, so lucky in doing what I do to be surrounded by all sorts of love. The newly engaged, the newly married, the newly born, families in love, families celebrating love, all sorts of love. These two have a love all their own. A love that wraps them up so compleltey. A love that you can physically see burning in their eyes. They love each other. That is all. They will love each other forever, "until the end of the world" as one of their very favorite songs states. When I left their wedding that night Debbie told me "Your family now", that made me little heart almost burst, I would be beyond lucky to be included in such an amazing, generous, loving, and warm family. Frank and Debbie, your love for each other is so real, so raw and unfiltered. I hope your passion will always burn as bright as it does right now. Thank you so much for welcoming me into the most important day of your lives. I can't wait to watch your story unfold, and (As per Dave Matthews, and a song I know you both adore) watch as you "teach your children to fly"...

Debbie made all the flower arrangements herself. Amazing.

Frank and his family have a special tradition, the Groom gets shaved and a haircut on their wedding day. Special Shout out to my second photographer Eric for capturing the guys pre-ceremony while I hung with the girls.

The Bride and Groom opted to see each other before the ceremony, so that they could get to their reception right away! We had lots of rain that day, but I dont think the rain but a damper on this moment.

Here's a little "Out take". I told Frank to whisper a little something into Debbie's ear...then she looked down and realized the videographer had mic'd him. Here is their reaction. Must have been pretty good Frank!!

Frank and Debbie's ceremony was probably one of my favorites of all time. Full of ceremony and ritual and history. Beautiful.

And they lived happily ever after...

2nd Annual Pumpkin Patch Mini Sessions

2010-09-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

There Back!!!!!

Two Families Become One...

2010-09-12T17:34:00.000-07:00

I got a call a few weeks back from a very good friend of mine saying that her Dad wanted to hire me to photograph their family, their NEW family!!!! I was so excited to her that my wonderful friend Katie's Dad had proposed to his sweet Fiance, officially announcing to the world that they wanted to unite their two families. Pat and Patti decided to have a family vacation out at Amelia Island to celebrate their engagement as well as to give all the girls time to hang out and bond together for a week. I love that both Pat and Patti are bringing two beautiful ladies into their new family with them. I had so much fun photographing the D. family and all the "D." girls. Now theres lots of sisters ,new and old, and lots and lots of creating memories together! D. Family! I cannot wait to watch all the love that you all bring to each other. I am so happy that you all are turing two families into one...

Sisters Old...

And New...

Now, a moment for the lovebirds...

Here's a little out take. I told the girls to head out into the water, that I wanted to get a shot of them with all the water around. Knowing full well that this would happen. I secretly just wanted to set up a little bonding moment, that I could capture. I wasn't disappointed ;-)

The M. Family - Jacksonville Family Photographer

2010-09-03T10:19:00.000-07:00

I honestly don't even know where to begin with this family. I am that in love with them. I met Martina and Ryan months and months ago when we did their maternity photos, and I instantly knew I wanted to be their friends, forever, like BFF's, like exchange BFF charm, meet me by the lockers and we'll always walk to lunch together, kind of friends ;-) They were so incredibly in love, so incredibly excited to welcome their first child, and just so incredibly happy to be together. I was so excited to finally get to meet their baby girl. Sweet Emma is everything that Martina and Ryan are, wrapped into one. Playful, affectionate, loving, kind, happy, and smiley and just a splash of sass. I've always had parents tell me that having a child is like watching your heart walk around on the outside...this family has an amazing heart, and they are raising Emma with so much love. You can see in their eyes what this baby has done for them, and its amazing. Emma, you are so incredibly loved and treasured. And I will have a tiny BFF charm just for you the next time I see you ;-) Love you M. Fam!!!

Sarah and Andrew - Sneak Peek

2010-08-31T12:07:00.000-07:00

Little Sneak Peek for Sarah and Andrew...

Frank and Debbie are Engaged!

2010-08-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

In honor of Frank and Debbie tying the knot tomorrow, I wanted to make sure their engagement session was posted today!! When I photographed their engagement session a few weeks ago, I knew right away their wedding day would be fantastic. The passion they have for each other is undeniable. The love they have for each other is so strong, that's its not hard for my camera to capture. Those two ingredients together, when combined with a couple who love to laugh and snuggle and most of all just be together are the perfect mix for an amazing wedding. Frank and Debbie, I cant wait until tomorrow!!!

Lindsey & Jimmy are Married! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-08-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

Getting Ready: Casa Monica, St. Francis Suite
Ceremony: Ancient City Baptist Church
Reception: The White Room
Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid
Hair: Apryle Nolan
Makeup: Jo El with Ciao Bella Makeup
Cake: Defore's Cake Design
DJ/Entertaiment:Charlie Roberts

I've known sweet Lindsey for a while now, Lindsey and I were sorority sisters at UF! So, when she asked me to photograph her wedding I was beyond honored, and when I met Jimmy I was even more excited. Jimmy is the sweetest Southern Gentleman I may have ever met. He compliments Linds perfectly, and I knew their wedding would be one filled with love and lots of emotion, and all in all a good Southern party. I was not wrong. There was lots and lots of love, and lots and lots of Southern guests to turn their reception into a total party :-) I feel in love with all the guests, mostly because they were so incredibly happy for Lindsey and Jimmy, and because they knew how to hit the dance floor ;-) Linds and Jimmy, I am so, so thankful I got to photograph your wedding day. I hope your honeymoon was amazing, and I am so excited for you to start your lives together!!!

Loved Lindsey's Kate Spade flats!

Love when Mom's help Brides get ready :-)

Lindsey and Jimmy decided to see each other before the ceremony for a few reasons. They wanted lots of time for photos, they wanted to be able to get right to their reception after they said I do, and because they just wanted a little quiet time together. We were a little bummed because our original "First look" location was rained out, but I think these images show its not about the location at all...

Loved how I caught Linds grabbing a little sneak peek of a waiting Jimmy out the door :-)

LOVE this shot my amazing second shooter Katie grabbed.

Loved Lindsey and Jimmy's reaction to all the hoots and hollars they got while headed to the reception from all the St. Augustine tourists :-)

I would like to take a moment to thank the Jersey Shore. Without you fist pumping at receptions wouldn't be possible.

And they lived happily ever after...

To see even more images from Lindsey and Jimmy's wedding head over to facebook and "like" Jenn Hopkins Photography!

Lindsey's Bridal Portraits! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-08-26T11:24:00.000-07:00

I love the old southern tradition of Bridal Portraits! What better way to get the most of your dress!!! Linds and I headed out a few weeks before her wedding to grab lots of images of Linds in her beautiful dress! Stay tuned for wedding pics!

Brian and Gracie are getting married!! {Jacksonville Wedding Photographer}

2010-08-16T10:50:00.001-07:00

Gracie and Brian. Where to begin. When I met up with Gracie and Brian to chat about their wedding day I knew they were the perfect Jenn Hopkins Photography couple. They were bursting with excitement over their recent engagement, and they had jumped into their wedding planning with so much excitement and energy. I enjoyed chatting with them so much, and when they decided to book me I gave a little squeal because this was a couple that I knew I wanted to know for a long time. They fit each other so well. Gracie giggles away at Brian and Brian loves to wrap his arms around his Gracie. The perfect couple. And super adorable too! I kept calling them my Gap Couple cause they just looked like the popped straight out of a Gap ad :-) Gracie and Brian, I am beyond excited about watching you walk down the aisle in March!!! Its going to be an amazing day!

Brittney and Casey are Married!!

2010-08-10T20:53:00.000-07:00

Ceremony and Reception: Golden Ocala, Ocala Fl.
DJ: MBC Entertainment

Cake: Jan Edison

Floral: Bo-Kay Florist

I am so lucky in my job to be surrounded by so much love. I am immersed in all things lovey dovey, and sweet, and snuggly and I ADORE every minute of it. I, in turn, fall right back in love with all the love my clients are experiencing. Does that make sense internet? I love so much being a part of their big day, that when I leave them at the end of the night I always feel like a proud relative, watching them head off to start the newest chapter of their love story. When I met Brittney and Casey I knew that I had to be apart of theirs. So that I could capture every single word of their love story. These two are so amazing together. They just seem to complete each other, like they have been together their whole lives. Casey is so protective and caring and does everything he can to make Brittney feel safe and loved and taken care of, in return, Brittney looks upon Casey with the most adoration and love that I have ever seen. She beams when he walks in the room. Their wedding day was so full of laughter and giggles, embraces, and kisses. Brittney and Casey, such an honor to photograph your wedding. I Cannot wait to watch you add more and more pages to the incredible love story you have already written...

I loved the room the guys got ready in. So manly!

Maybe, my favorite flower girl photo of all time :-)

And they lived happily ever after...

Frank and Debbie - Sneak Peek

2010-07-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy editing projects that can't quite hit the blog yet, some are sessions to surprise other, some are bridal sessions for weddings that haven't occured yet, and some are Christmas Gifts! So, to keep my blog from being neglected here's a little sneak peek from Frank and Debbie's engagement session.

Katherine - Class of 2011 Jacksonville Senior Photographer

2010-07-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

I think its official, they just don't make Seniors like they used to. Meet Katherine, one of my 2011 Senior Reps. I am not sure I can even come up with all the words to explain our session together. First off, she is so sweet, polite, intelligent, funny, beautiful, down to earth, and did I mention beautiful? All rolled into one. Sweet Katherine stays very busy travelling on mission trips with her church, and studying hard since she's in her High School's IB program, so I was so glad when she had a little time for a photo session at her favorite places, TPC Sawgrass and the beach. Katherine, I hope I could capture your beauty, both inside and out. I am so honored that you are representing my business!!! I see amazing things in your future, and to all of those whose futures you will touch with your presence.

Leaving on a Jet Plane...

2010-07-09T19:13:00.000-07:00

A little reminder to all my amazing current clients and future clients, Jenn Hopkins Photography will be closed for 2 weeks while I am on vacation!!! I cannot wait to get away for a bit and come back relaxed and inspired. I will be trying to post some along the way for those who are interested in my little photo venture
(hopefully images full of Orca Whales and Sunny Skies)! I will be checking email periodically so I promise to return each and every email and inquiry as quickly as possible!

The ADORABLE P. Family!

2010-07-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

Oh this family. The first time I photographed these girls baby Lilly was only 9 months old. Not she's 2!! They were one of my very first clients, but I have never gotten to photograph the entire family!! So when they booked a summer beach session I was beside myself. This family is as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside. These girls are so fantastic! Smart, sweet, caring, kind, polite. Everything everyone wants their sweet girls to be. Mr. and Mrs. P, you all are doing an amazing job!!! Cant wait to see what these girls become. They will definitely make an impression in this world, I know that. (and they will certainly break some hearts along the way as well...) ;-)

Where it all started :-)

Don't even get me started talking about Sandy. Sweet, beautiful, Golden Girl Sandy. Sandy reminded me so much of my Golden Taylor that we lost about two years ago, that it made this session even more important for me. I would have loved to have photos of Taylor and our family...

Miss Katie. Sweet, Smart, little Mother, and the oldest of the three girls.

Miss Abbey. Sparkly Eyed, full of smiles, so much heart.

Miss Lilly. Precious baby girl of the family. Cherished and loved so much by her entire family. And those eyes. Don't even get me started on those eyes.

Oh how I wish I had sisters...

Mommies first baby...

Sandy + Her Girls + Kicking Water = A Happy Dog

Alyssa & Keith - Married!

2010-07-08T19:50:00.000-07:00

Alyssa and Keith were married on the 4th of July in Lake Mary at the Lake Mary Events Center. A beautiful location for a beautiful ceremony. Keith and Alyssa have a deep love for God, each other, and their family. They celebrated all of those things last weekend when they tied the knot!! I adored watching Alyssa's face as she walked down the aisle towards the love of her life. They locked eyes with each other, and never looked away the entire time. They were so wrapped up in each other. It was so fantastic to watch, and even more amazing to photograph. Alyssa and Keith, I hope you both had an amazing honeymoon!!! Thank you so much for allowing me to be apart of it!

For those Florida Fans out there, this should really hit home...For those of you who aren't familiar. Florida has a fantastic tradition that includes a song. One of the lines in the song, and one that has always pulled at my heart is "In all kinds of weather we all stick together...". Alyssa and Keith, what an amazing way to start your marriage. Such a true statement, and one that everyone should live by.

I love that Alyssa got ready in her childhood home, surrounded by family.

I have to say that "Jumping Shots" are not something I usually do. Since they are super popular and it seems everyone has them. But when the boys mentioned "Jumping Super Mario Brothers" I had to play along ;-)

Alyssa's ladies surrounded her just moments before she walked down the aisle, to each say a little prayer out loud for her and her new life as Keith's wife.

I loved that Keith's Dad married them, and when your Dad marries you, you leave lots of opportunity for talk of Grandchildren. I believe this is what was happening at this moment ;-)

Keith and Alyssa also incorporated a "God's Knot" into their ceremony. The three cords represented both Keith and Alyssa and God coming together. Loved the spin on the traditional sand ceremony or candle lighting.

Favorite. Mother Son Dance. Of. All. Time.

Grabbed this shot during Alyssa's sorority cheer. Made me a little nostalgic for all my Sorority Sisters.

I cannot even begin to describe the awesomeness of this crowd. I have never seen dancing like this. A total party. Dance circles and Dance Offs every time I turned around. I was in photo heaven.

And they lived happily, ever, after...

Andrew is 6 Months!

2010-07-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

So excited I got to photograph Andrew at 6 months! I photographed this sweet boy and his family when he was 6 weeks old, so it was so fun to see how much he's grow. and what a personality!!!! He lauged so hard during our session. I think alot of that has to do with his super fun, laid back parents. Just adore this little family, and I hope to photograph Andrew for a long, long, time!!! I hate to keep this post so short, because I could write for days on the love this family has for each other, but I'm trying to catch up on my posts before I leave for VACATION!!!!! Whoohooo!! So, I'll let the images do the talking :-)

Cathy & Ben are Married!! {Destination Wedding Photographer}

2010-06-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

Ceremony and Reception : Cheeca Lodge and Spa, Islamorada, FL.
Hair by: Artistic Designs, Islamorada
Cake: Faithfully Yours by Faith Weaver

I met Cathy for the first time when she was the Maid of Honor at Taylor and James, Islamorada wedding. Cathy and I had chatted a few times prior, when she booked me for her wedding, but I couldn't wait to really meet her. I was not dissapointed. Cathy was sweet, sincere, so kind. I was even more excited for their wedding when I met her Groom, Ben. People often ask me why I include engagement sessions with my packages, and its for one selfish reason. To get to know my clients. To know what makes them tick, what types of images they love, and how they interact. So that on their wedding day I know exactly what to tell them to make them feel comfortable in front of my camera. I didn't get a change to photograph these two, since they live in Savannah, but I had an even better opportunity. I gotobserve them just being themselves at Taylor and James wedding. I watched how Ben made Cathy laugh constantly. I watched how Ben would smile across the dance floor while he watched his soon to be Bride announced with the wedding party. It was a sneak peek into how their own day would be. Cathy and Ben's wedding day was, I believe, everything they truely love. Full of friends, and family, and most of all each other. Ben is so incredibly sweet, and he absoultley adores Cathy. I felt incredibly lucky to be there photographing their day. Cathy and Ben, I hope you both had an amazing honeymoon!! I hope to see ya'll again soon!!

LOVE this shot...

I posted these two photos together because they were two of my favorite moments from Cathy and Ben's Wedding. I loved their sand ceremony, because Ben's glass held sand from Lake Michigan and Cathy's held sand from Islamorada. So perfect to watch the two come together. I also loved the second image, because during the last prayer of their ceremony, when everyones heads were bowed, Cathy reached up and touched Ben's cheek. This photo is why I'm there. To document moments. This moment was perfect. Mostly because besides myself, I may have been the only one who saw this besides the two of them. I loved how in the middle of their ceremony, they had their own private moment.

To say that the weather on the day of Cathy and Ben's wedding was hot, would be an understatement. It was beyond hot. And steamy. So, after dancing the night away, the only possible way to end the night, was in the pool...

The Bridal party, not to be outdone by the Bride and Groom.

Come Visit Me!

2010-06-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

Come Visit Me this Thursday! And find some amazing jewelry all at the same time!

Chelsea - Class of 2011 {Jacksonville Senior Photographer}

2010-06-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

Please be prepared for a long blog post! I loved so many of Chelsea's photos that it was hard to choose. I think I loved them so much because, had I had a Senior Session when I was in High School, this is exactly the session I would have wanted. When I asked Chelsea what she had in mind for her images she answered quickly, "A Taylor Swift" photo session. I knew exactly what she had in mind. Country and Soft and lots of fields ;-) I found a super fun location that I cant wait to use with lots of other sessions. Not to mention Chelsea was a total natural in front of the camera. I cannot wait to see all the things Chelsea will do in life, shes such an amazing girl. Sweet, kind, athletic and girly all rolled up into one. Have an amazing Senior year Chelsea!!

Off Sak's 5th Ave - Bridal Jewelry Trunk Show

2010-06-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

Such a fun project to photograph all this bling!!! Off Saks 5th Ave, at the St. Augustine outlets, is having a fantastic event on Thursday, July 1st from 4-7pm. A Bridal jewelry Trunk show! You always hear about wedding gown trunk shows, but I love the idea of a jewelry trunk show. This jewelry is beautiful and affordable. Such a great way to find some bling that will show off that amazing dress on your wedding day!

Taylor and James - Published! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-06-23T10:42:00.000-07:00

So excited to see that Taylor and James' Islamorada wedding was published today on a fantastic blog. Taylor and James amazing wedding is Featured! Check it out over at The Florida Brides Blog!!

Sara - 2011 Senior Rep! Jacksonville Senior Photographer

2010-06-21T21:02:00.000-07:00

Every time my camera shutter clicked I had flashbacks. Flash backs to my Senior year. A year that was full of fun, and love. Heartbreak and Happiness. It was a year of growing, of learning who I really was. Friendships grew, and friendships faded. I found love and I lost love. It was a year of innocence along with a year of worry. Worry about where I would go from there? Who would I become? So much was won and lost in that Senior year. So many memories made. I will always have those memories. Many of those memories made me who I am today. So all I could think of while photographing Sara was that maybe these images would become apart of her memories. That this one evening at the beach, with her sweet friend Casey, would be something they would always think about, and giggle about for years to come. I remember doing something very similar with one of my very good high school friends. We "modeled" for a photographers portfolio. The funny thing is I remember exactly how I felt that day. Young, beautiful, full of life. I remember the photographer snapping away as my sweet friend and I giggled and laughed and knowing that that image was capturing exactly who we were right at that moment. Free. The entire world in our hands. Isn't that what photos are all about? Capturing those moments and memories? Just like the moment I had 10 years ago, I wanted simply to capture who Sara is right now. I hadn't met Sara before I photographed her but I could tell very quickly what she was all about. Sara was a mixture of alot of things. Equal parts girly and athletic, equal parts sassy and sweet. The perfect mix for someone ready to make her way in this world.

Chelsea Class of 2011 - Senior Session!! Jacksonville Senior Photographer!

2010-06-18T18:18:00.000-07:00

Just a sneak peek of Miss Chelsea, more to come very soon!!

Casey - 2011 Senior Rep! Jacksonville Senior Photographer

2010-06-17T11:53:00.001-07:00

I met Casey last year during a family session, and I new she HAD to be my Senior Rep. for the Class of 2011 Seniors! Casey is super sweet, and obviously adorable, and she is exactly who I want to represent Jenn Hopkins Photography at her High School. Casey got her super model on last week out at Jax Beach along with her friend Sara, who you will see shortly on the blog :-) I had such a great time photographing them. Seniors are so fun for me. I just can't help but look at them and think their whole life is ahead of them. What a great time to document who they are, and what they stand for before their big Senior Year! Thanks Casey, for being a fantastic rep!!! Your absolutely beautiful, inside and out.

Kimmie and Kevin are Married!!! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-06-14T13:24:00.001-07:00

Ceremony & Reception: Palm Valley Gardens
Cakes/Desserts: By Kimmie!!
Floral: Palm Valley Gardens

Make Up: Lilia Budnik

There's something special and magic about all my brides and grooms. That is the reason why they come into my lives, so I can document that specialness that each couple has all to themselves. With Kimmie and Kevin, I was able to spot what makes them work right away. Kimmie and Kevin seem to just, fit. That sounds very simple, but its the honest truth. They seem to connect so beautifully that when they are together they seem so wrapped up in each others love that nothing else matters. Not the heat on their wedding day, not the stress of all the hustle and bustle around them. As long as they have each other all is right with the world. These two were so great to photograph. Laid back and in love and they let me take all the time in the world to capture them on their wedding day. Kimmie and Kevin, you two are amazing. Simple as that. :-) And I am so lucky to have been a part of your amazing day.

Loved that Kimmie's bouquet, and all her centerpieces had fresh herbs in them! They smelled amazing! You can see the basil in these images.

Favorite "putting on the shoes" image, with Kimmie's sweet Niece and flower girl.

I love how, even with guys, looking fierce always turns into a laughing shot ;-)

Even more proof why I adore Kimmie and Kevin, because sometimes they just gotta dance it out :-)

Kimmie is a fantastic pastry chef at a super amazing restaurant in Ponte Vedra, she did all her desserts herself!

Kimmie and Kevin sure know how to throw a Paaarrrrtay!

And they lived happily, ever, after...

"Copy and Paste" - Jacksonville Newborn Photographer

2010-06-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

A baby is, without a doubt, a miracle. TWO BABIES is absolutely an amazing, unbelievable miracle!!! I enjoyed photographing sweet little Jake and Cole so much I cant even begin to describe it. Whenever I photograph newborns, I always have this moment. It usually happens when I'm trying to soothe them back to sleep or when I get to hold them for a bit to try to rock the fuss out of them, but never the less it happens. I am always struck deep down to the core at how amazing these babies are. They were all born into such intense love, they all have the entire world ahead of them. They are pure and innocent and precious and I thank goodness every day that I get to document their first few little days. Cole and Jake were no exception, if anything this feeling was intensified as I looked down at these two identical faces! Its also amazing that how at 2 weeks old these babies know the other one is there. Cole would fuss until he felt Jake and then he'd quiet right down. Their little hands would naturally wrap around the others, instinctively. Cole and Jake, I am so lucky to have witnessed your togetherness.

We CANNOT forget about the babies big brother Luke!!! Let me tell you, as awesome as those twins are this kiddo is pretty darn special. He is the sweetest little man, and within minutes of walking in was holding my hand and draping his arm around me. He snuggled his brothers, and held them better then any child his age. Not to mention he is crazy smart. Cole and Jake got lucky in the big brother department, thats for sure!

Corie & Emery are Engaged! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-06-02T19:42:00.000-07:00

I cannot even begin to describe the cuteness of this couple. The crazy thing is they are equally as hot as they are adorable. These two went from giggling and smiling, to supermodel hot in just a few clicks of the camera. This sweet couple met while attending College in Texas, hence the adorable cowboy boots that Corey chose to wear for her session. While they call Florida home now, they wanted to bring a little bit of Dallas into their engagement images. Corey and Emery, I hope I was able to capture who you all truely are in these images. Fun, Sweet, and Hot all rolled into one amazing couple ;-).

Corey and Emery - Photobooth Syle :-)

Kelly & Mark are Married!!!

2010-06-02T14:31:00.000-07:00

Ceremony: Carlin Park - Jupiter, FL.
Reception: Sugar Cane Island Bistro - Jupiter, FL.
Cake: A Piece of Cake

They couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day. The weather was perfect, the dress was amazing, and Kelly smiled larger then any other Bride I have ever seen. She was about to marry the man of her dreams, her soul mate. She was excited, and nervous, giddy, and elated at the thought of walking out on that beach and becoming Mrs. Mark Gale. The feeling was mutual judging from the look in Mark's eyes as he watched Kelly walk over the sand dunes and towards him, ready to say her I Do's. Such a great couple, the way they just fit together is amazing. I felt so grateful to photograph Kelly and Mark's wedding. Not just because their love was fantastic, but because were related! Kelly is actually my second cousin, and when she hired me to photograph her wedding I was thrilled. Not only would I get to photograph a really great wedding, I would get to see family I haven't seen since I was a very little girl :-) Kelly and Mark, thank you for trusting me with your special day, and thank you also, for reminding me just how amazing family can be, and how proud I am to call you all mine.

Love this shot of Kelly that I grabbed while her dress was being tied up. She was so emotional, and she was having a little moment realizing that the day she waited for was finally here.

Kelly and Mark tied the knot on the beach, literally surrounded by friends and family.

I told you she was a happy Bride...

Some Reception details

This Reception was a total party!

Have you EVER seen someone SO excited to catch the garter?

And they lived happily, ever, after...

Miss Maddie as Cinderella....

2010-05-25T09:18:00.001-07:00

Oh my sweet Maddie. I have been photographing this child for the past 2 years or so and I swear I will photograph her until she's 50. Maddie was one of the very first children I ever photographed, and I learned so much from her. I learned to let children have fun first, and be photographed second. I learned that to make them smile you must make them laugh. I learned that in order to truely capture a child you must get them to let you in, which isnt ever very hard since children want nothing more but to let you in. This particular session came about because Maddie was a flower girl in her Uncle's wedding and when her Mommy saw her in her dress she knew she had to capture how precious she looked in it. I photograph both children and weddings, and I promise you nothing makes a little girl smile bigger then when she's in a "princess dress" like most flower girl dresses are. So, when searching for a location I knew I had to take Maddie to one of my favorite parks. On the drive there we discussed that this was a magical park and she decided it MUST be Cinderella's park!!!! This sweet girl ran from location to location, her imagination running wild. She had everyone there pegged as a character, from ugly stepsisters, to Prince Charming (I asked if I could please be Gus, my favorite of Cinderella's mice as to avoid being a stepsister ;-) ) and Maddie of course was the star herself Cinderella. I was corrected by the princess multiple times when I would call her name "Hey Maddie, look here, or hey Maddie look at this" she would reply "I"M CINDERELLA". ;-) Miss Maddie, I hope your imagination always runs as wild as it did on this day. Love you sweet girl! Thank you for always being my inspiration and my muse.

Sometimes you just have to twirl...

Sarah & Rob are Married!!! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-05-18T12:22:00.000-07:00

Ceremony: Stockton Park
Reception: Ortega Landing Marina
Make-up: Paulina Perez
Flowers & Decor: Riverside Flowers & Events

I almost cried when Sarah asked me to photograph her wedding a year ago. I cried because not only was I excited to photograph her big day, but because Sarah and I were friends before she was my client, and I knew no one deserved a more amazing day then Sarah. Sarah and I were actually coworkers in my previous life as an event planner, and then Sarah actually became my boss. As our work relationship changed, we were still able to have a personal relationship as friends as well, which is no easy task in most corporate offices. Sarah was always so amazingly supportive of my passion for photography, she helped to create opportunities in the office for me to learn more about my passion which is something that I will always be thankful for. Though I am no longer working with Sarah as my boss, I'm my own boss now, she is still incredibly supportive and also an incredible friend! Sarah, I am thankful for our friendship, and even more thankful that you wanted me there on your big day to document it for you and Rob. I've never seen you more happy then when Rob walks in a room, and I knew he was the one just as soon as you met him. Rob puts a sparkle in Sarah's eye, and I've seen Sarah do the same for Rob. I know you both were truly meant for each other, and I am so excited that you all have officially started your lives together.

Loved Sarah's purple shoes!

Love this little series I caught as Sarah and Rob walked back up the aisle.

Funny story, apparently Rob's family has an inside joke about Elvis, and showing up to special events that happen in their family. So, Rob's Brothers and Sisters surprised Sarah and Rob with, well, Elvis! I just loved Sarah and Rob's reaction.

And they lived happily, ever, after...

Corie & Emery - Sneak Peek

2010-05-13T07:58:00.000-07:00

Just a few to hold Corie and Emery over. It was SO hard to choose a few because I loved every image we captured last weekend!

Sneak Peek - Elisa & Nick

2010-05-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peek of Elisa and Nicks Newlywed Session :-)

Rob & Sarah are engaged!

2010-05-11T09:08:00.001-07:00

Stay tuned for Rob and Sarah's wedding post, coming VERY soon!!! In the meantime, I wanted to post a few sweet images from their engagement session. :-)

Cortney & Seth - Just Because {Jacksonville Wedding Photographer}

2010-05-06T11:20:00.000-07:00

Cortney and Seth contacted me a few months back and wanted to have some photos done, "Just Because". I love that. Cortney and Seth will have been married 1 year in July, and they wanted some photos in their wedding gear to celebrate that! So we headed out to St. Augustine to capture some more relaxed images of the two of them. Cortney and Seth are one thing, FUN. So I wanted to make sure I captured that. We started the session creating some beautiful images amidst the vine covered walls of St. Augustine, and ended the session where all good parties eventually lead, the fountain!!! I think those images REALLY show what this couple is all about. Cortney and Seth, thank you for choosing me to add some splash to your wedding day images ;-) You two are so fun, and so in love and it was so great to spend the day with you all documenting who you really are!!! Love yall!

Photographic evidence of why I have the most amazing clients. I loved that when Cort and Seth saw this fountain their eyes sparkled and they gave each other these sneaky little smiles, and me, not exactly being a stranger to fountains (forgive me, those were my college years) I knew just what they were thinking ;-)

Thank you Cortney and Seth, I hope you always laugh together as much as you did on this day!

A precious little Bean...

2010-05-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

For over a year now I have been following an amazing blogger. Katie is no ordinary blogger, she is one of the greatest "Mommy Blogger"'s I've ever read. I know what your saying Internet, why do you, the mother of a golden retriever, follow a Mommy Blogger? Because shes WAY more then just a Mommy blogger. Katie's a life blogger. I cannot tell you how many times I have laughed and cried with Katie. She blogs honestly about everything that goes on in her life, the good and the bad. She's honest, and hilarious, passionate, and compassionate and overall just an amazing wife and mother. I never get enough of Katie's stories about her sweet husband Chris, and her baby boy, Michael (who she, and now the entire world lovingly call "the Bean"). I fell in love with Katie and Chris's story, of how they were high school sweethearts, I laughed when Katie blogged about searching for daycare for the Bean, I cried when she talked about the ups and downs that a marriage can face when having a baby, I giggled when Chris blogged on his own part of the website, the man cave, about having to go shopping. Because of Katie's amazing ability to give life to words, I felt like I've watched the Bean, along with his Mommy and Daddy grow into a fantastic family, so when the Marriage Confessions family announced they were moving to Florida I begged, I mean, asked them if they wanted some photos done? I was super excited when Katie said yes, so I headed down to Orlando last week to photograph them at the gorgeous Casa Feliz. Katie being the blogger she is, even posted all about her experience! Her words made me laugh out loud and anyone who has ever had a photo session with a little one will definitely relate. See, Katie and I have something in common. Something very BIG in common. We are both following our passion in life. I photograph, Katie writes, and while these things may seem completely different, they aren't. Its what makes us tick. It's what we love to do for ourselves, and for others. We want to make a difference in peoples lives, me with my photographs and Katie with her words. So it was an honor to team up with someone who puts just as much love and hard work into her blog, as I do into capturing images of my amazing clients.

Katie, Chris, and Bean Man, Thank you SO much for allowing me to document your life, I hope I was able to capture the funny, warm, loving, and inspiring family that you really are. Hope to see you all soon!

A little Bean and Mommy time...

Not to be outdone by a little Bean and Daddy time...

While Chris and Katie are AWESOME parents, they are also, a couple. So I wanted to make sure to grab some images of just the two of them.

I also grabbed a few shots of Katie to use for some promotional stuff as well!

Bean Man, I know you may kill me and your parents for this when it comes time for you to impress the ladies, but I'll leave you with this. Have you ever seen a little man love a teddy bear so much!!

To see more images from this amazing session click here to head over to facebook and "like" my fanpage! Head on over to Katie's site, http://www.marriageconfessions.com/ to read all about her fantastic family.

Sweet Baby Andrew - Jacksonville Newborn Photographer

2010-04-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

I photographed little baby Andrew a while back, but I've gotten a little behind on my blog, but I wanted to make sure no one missed meeting this handsome little man and his beautiful parents!! Everyone was very excited for Andrew to come in to this world, and look at his Mama! Can you tell she had a baby 9 days prior to this session!! I. Family, thank you so much for letting me photograph you all together! Have fun raising that sweet baby boy!!

Kelly & Mark are engaged! Florida Wedding photographer

2010-04-26T13:38:00.000-07:00

I've said before how I love that facebook reconnects people, but Kelly is a perfect example of this. Kelly is actually my cousin! Well, second cousin, I think, all that stuff confuses me sometimes, but we're family! and I love family. I, myself, have a very tiny family. Just me, Mom, and Dad. My extended family is pretty small too, just a handful of Aunts and Uncles. So I was so excited when my Kelly friended me and Ive gotten to know her so much better through the wonderful world of Facebook. Kelly had been making sweet comments on my photos for months until it was her turn to get engaged!! Then she booked me right away. I was so happy to meet Mark and see the man who Kelly had decided to spend the rest of her life with! Kelly and Mark, I am so excited for your wedding, it'll be a little family reunion to celebrate your love!!! See you in a few weeks.

Sweet Baby Sailor! Gainesville Newborn Photographer

2010-04-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

I photographed Sailor's Mommy a few months ago when while this sweet little lady was still cooking in her Mama's tummy, so I was beyond excited to finally meet her!!! I was also excited to meet Sailor's big sister and brother and they did not dissapoint. This entire family is so happy to have Sailor in their lives. What a perfect little addition Sailor is to the T. family. She is so loved and I cannot wait to watch her grow. Thank you T. family for letting me into your lives. Such sweet wonderful children you have, your doing an amazing job!!!!

Jenn & Bryan are Married! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-04-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

Ceremony Location: Christ Episcopal Church , Ponte Vedra
Reception Location: The Plantation House at The Plantation, Ponte Vedra
Hair: Grazyna Mercado with Salon D'Orsay
Make Up: Jackie Neal
Wedding Planner: The AWESOME Diann Catlin
Cake: Sheila's Cakes
Florist: Gardner's of Ortega
Bridesmaids Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids

An hour into photographing Jenn and Bryan's wedding day, I had cried 3 times. Am I an emotional sap, yes. But there was so much emotion flowing through this day that even the most hardened of hearts would have let a tear or two fall on numerous occasions during their day. Jenn and Bryan knew from the moment they were engaged what kind of wedding they wanted. They wanted the entire day to be about their love and commitment to each other. Their wedding was an intimate gathering of their closest friends and family and they wanted to make sure they made lots of cherished memories throughout the day. Jenn and Bryan, I am so honored to have captured your wedding. Your love is true, and its strong, and the sweetness that you both have for each other is astounding. I am a better person because I was apart of your special day, Thank you.

I loved how Jenn took a quiet moment during the morning to write a special note to Bryan...

A big Thank you to my second shooter for the day, Katie, for hanging with the guys and capturing the next few images!!

Happy Birthday Alex!

2010-04-13T21:13:00.000-07:00

A few months ago I was contacted by another photographer, asking if I could take some photos of her. These were no ordinary photos, Alex is graduating from JU next month and she wanted some great new photos to celebrate who she is now, and all the accomplishments she has made in the past few years as a person, a student, and a photographer. Alex and I would chat back and forth via facebook, but when we first met the night of our shoot I felt like I had known her forever. She's just one of those girls. She's down to earth, determined, real. She's fun, and honest, and knows exactly who she is and what she wants, and you don't find that every day. The day Alex graduates from college will be exactly 5 years to the day that I myself graduated from college. I would have killed to have had just a drop of the determination and confidence back then as Alex has at this point in her life. I was always told that college is what made you who you are, and as much as I loved college, and it gave me more memories and amazing moments then most people get to experience, college isn't what makes you. Its the years after. When your friends marry, and have babies, you get first jobs, get laid off from jobs, and get job promotions. Its when you stand at a crossroads and decide to follow your dreams and not look back, instead of following the safe path everyone says you should take. Its the friendships that grow and flourish, when you aren't living across the halls from one another anymore. So today, Sweet Alex, on your 24th birthday and with graduation only a few short weeks away, the whole world is in front of you. Take it in the palm of your hand and continue to follow your dreams. Time goes by so fast so enjoy every part of these next few years. I look forward to getting to know you better, and watching the mark you make on this big world!!

Boey is 1!!! Orlando Childrens Photographer

2010-04-13T13:07:00.001-07:00

You may remember this beauty from one of my very favorite sessions, exactly 6 months ago! Sweet baby Boey is 1 year old!! I was so excited when her Mommy and Daddy asked me back to capture here again 6 months older. This beauty and her sweet family do not disappoint. Although our original location was under construction, I quickly realized its not about the background for this family. Its just about capturing their love for each other. C. Family, I hope I captured how amazing you all are together!! You're so precious to me and I am so glad to have you as friends AND clients!

Sweet baby Owen!!

2010-04-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting to photograph this child since before he was even born! When our good friend Kristen started hinting around that they might have another child I was over the moon! Not just for photos sake, but because I just love their first child, Maddie with all my heart. I knew Kristen and Ryan were meant to bring another sweet child into this world, and I couldn't wait to document that. Kristen, Ryan, and Maddie, Congratulations on this new little angel!!! I cannot wait to watch this little miracle grow and become best friends with his big sister!!!!! Love yall!

Love this image I caught of beautiful Maddie when she was helping me test my light.

The B. Family!! {Jacksonville Family Photographer}

2010-04-07T12:53:00.001-07:00

I met Krista through a very good friend about a year ago, I asked her if she ever needed any help at weddings and she didn't hesitate to ask me to come along to her next weeding. Krista was full of information, and so super helpful, and definitley helped me grow as a wedding photographer. Since then she has been so forthcoming with information, anything I needed to ask I knew I could always call on Krista. So I was SO excited when she said she would be in town, and wanted to get some family photos. I'm always nervous to shoot fellow photogs, because I know we all have our own ideas on what the perfect image will be. The BONUS of shooting photographers is they will do anything to get the shot. More of that later in the blog post...Krista and Fam, it was SO great to capture you when you were in town!!! Hope to see you all again soon!

Krista and her hubby decided they needed some photos of just the two of them too! So fun!

Told you photographers do whatever it takes to get the shot, even walking down a steep embankment and climbing up on trees :-)

Nick & Meredith are Married!!!

2010-04-05T08:33:00.000-07:00

Ceremony & Reception: Cross Creek Ranch, Dover, FL.
Hair: Holly Nazario with A Hair Affair
Make-Up: Jess Waldrop
Cake: Alessi's

Almost 10 years to the day that Nick and Meredith met, they said I do. High School sweethearts are rare these days, but Nick and Meredith have been able to hold on to that love and grow and thrive in it for the last 10 years. Meeting these two you would think they met just yesterday. Their love is still fresh and new and exciting. The way Nick just beams at Meredith, the way they can't keep their hands off of each other, the sweet way they seem to complete each other, the way Nick cook's dinner for Meredith almost every night, the way Meredith supports Nick's "fishing" habit. Everything they do is for each other. So that the other one can relax after a long day at work, so they can laugh and giggle with each other through life's hard times. I meet so many amazing couples in this career, but I have been so blessed with Nick and Meredith's friendship these past few months. I have known Meredith since she was a little girl, and through the power of facebook Meredith found me and decided that she wanted to have me photograph their big day! I have never been so moved then when I watched Nick and Meredith, the last song of the evening, dance on the dance floor alone. Just the two of them. Taking in every single sip of their last few moments at the wedding they had worked hard to create. I was emotional because it was an amazing moment to witness, I have never been more thankful for my "job" as I was at that moment. I also couldn't believe the incredible woman that Meredith has become, and the amazing partner she has chosen to grow old with. Nick and Meredith, your more then clients, your true friends. I am so thankful my camera brought us back together. Love you both, and I hope you enjoy the memories I captured for you all forever.

Nick & Mere have a love for wine, and they got these awesome wine stoppers for their wedding. So I had a little fun with their rings :-)

I love this shot. After this Meredith said "so this is why you have bridesmaids!". Loved these girls, and its obvious how much they all love Meredith.

While I was hanging out with the Ladies, my awesome second shooter Abbey shot these great images of the Groom and the guys!

Nick & Meredith decided to see each other before hand, to calm their nerves, and to also have a little alone time together, and to take lots of times to get great photos!

Nick surprised Meredith at Christmas time by getting her the Horse and Carriage she had dreamed about arriving in the day of the wedding...sweet man.

I loved this shot of Meredith in the carriage after she said I do...

The Reception details were so fun to photograph!

The Sweetheart Table

Love the emotion that good toasts can bring out...

I'm a sucker for Father Daughter Dances...

And they lived happily, ever, after...

Sweet Baby Tread - Jacksonville Newborn Photographer

2010-03-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can probably tell from my poor neglected blog wedding season is in full force!!! So without further ado I would like to introduce you to baby Treadwell. You may recognize his Mommy from a previous post on her baby shower and baby bump!!! I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love when I get to do maternity and newborn photos!! It feels like I go full circle, getting to see their Mommy and Daddies prior to their birth and all the excitement they are feeling, then watching that culminate with the birth of their precious baby!!! So fun!!! I just love Tread's Mommy Hillary, shes a natural born mother and this baby boy is very lucky to have her! Congrats Johnny and Hillary, he's a beautiful boy!! Enjoy every piece of him!

Cade is 6 months old!! Jacksonville Children's Photographer

2010-03-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe Cade is 6 months old already!! You may remember this guy from this post, or this post. I've been lucky enough to see him every three months since he was a newborn!!! He has never failed to be a total angel for the camera. He was one of the sleepiest newborns, and the giggliest 3 month old, and he didn't dissapoint at 6 months. His Mommy and Daddy are doing an awesome job, and he just gets cuter and cuter everytime I see him!!

Oh, those eyes!

Sweet Baby Clara - Jacksonville Newborn Photographer

2010-03-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

Oh sweet baby Clara. This angel was the perfect little model for my images. She never fussed, not even once. I lifted her from her swing into my beanbag and she was the happiest smiliest baby ever, for 3 hours!! Clara is the new baby sister of Marin, who was also absolutley precious. I also adored Clara's parents. So laid back and great to work with and obviously over the moon in love with their girls.

I'll leave you with a smiley baby girl!

Brittney & Casey are engaged!! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-03-16T10:56:00.000-07:00

I love listening to my Bride's and Groom's engagement stories. This couple was no exception. In the telling of their sweet story I wasn't just impressed by the uber adorable way Casey proposed, I was more impressed with the way the two of them told their story. They giggled and laughed, and bantered back and forth about the entire process. I love couples like this. Couples that just work. Perfectly. They complete each others sentences, make each other smile and blush all at the same time. They love to laugh and they love to cuddle and I couldn't ask for a better recipe for engagement photos. Brittney and Casey, I cannot wait until July for your wedding. I can't wait to capture all of the love and emotion that runs through you both on your big day!!!

Karen's baby bump! {Gainesville Maternity Photographer}

2010-03-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

I knew I would like Karen from her very first email!!! The excitement for her new baby was palpable through that first email, as well as her love for her husband and her 2 other precious kiddos. She invited me into her life with that first email and I am so thankful!! Karen wanted to do some photos of her and her hubby at their home in Gainesville, and she also wanted to celebrate her baby body with some gorgeous photos of just her! Karen you are a stunning mommy to be! I can't wait to meet your sweet angel in April!!!

This family spends LOTS of time on their boat and they wanted that part of their lives to be photographed! So fun!

Hot Mama!!

Taylor & James are married!! {Islamorada Destination Photographer}

2010-03-11T21:01:00.001-08:00

Ceremony & Reception: La Siesta Resort, Islamorada
Make-Up and Hair: KiKi's Spa and Salon

It feels like I have been waiting for this wedding for years! I have been anticipating this wedding since the day I met Taylor and James. You may recognize this couple from my blog header, and sample albums, and on my website... I shot their engagement photos about a year ago, and I felt like I just clicked with this couple. They're so fun and outgoing that I knew their wedding would be amazing. Last weekend I headed down to Islamorada, toward sunny skies and turquoise waters. I knew that Taylor and James had spent a lot of time planning the details for their wedding, but I was overwhelmed by the beauty of it all when I arrived. The colors were so fun to shoot, and all the beach details were so perfect! The greatest part was that James and Taylor set the stage for all their friends to celebrate with them the love they share for each other, and they love they both share for all their familiy and friends. This wedding was a total party, you couldn't go 2 inches without running into someone with a smile (and a Corona). Taylor and James, I hope your honeymoon was amazing! Thank you again for allowing me to be a part of your lives, and your big day!

Loved these girls!

AMAZING Details!!

Instead of a traditional cake Taylor and James chose tiered trays of Key Lime Tarts!

Mr. and Mrs. James Martin!

Favorite photo ever...

Also, favorite photo ever...

Taylor and James were my first Bride and Groom to "Rock the Reception" with a little "Baby got Back"

Told you it was a party!

And they lived happily, ever, after...

Anna's Baby Bump!

2010-03-11T13:41:00.000-08:00

Anna and Jesse are SO excited to be welcoming their little baby boy soon! I meet Anna and Jesse while I was in North Carolina and they are the sweetest! I loved how they giggled non stop through their session. These two are going to be amazing, fun, parents! The sweetest, part. Jesse couldn't stop telling his beautiful wife just how gorgeous she looked! Love that! Anna and Jesse, thanks so much for sharing your excitement with me!

Alyssa & Keith are engaged!!

2010-03-09T09:40:00.000-08:00

I love when couple's choose a special place that they both love for their engagement photos. This has never been more true for Alyssa and Keith. This sweet couple chose Southwind for their engagement session. Southwind is a Younglife camp that they both were counselors at together, where they watched young children grown in the course of a few weeks, where they watched children's lives change with the community that younglife brings to them with their camps. We had the best time walking around the beautiful camp grounds where they invested so much of their time and love. What better place to photograph them in!! Alyssa and Keith, thank you so much for sharing all your memories with me from Southwind. I cannot wait until July!

Kimmie & Kevin are engaged! {Jacksonville Wedding Photographer}

2010-03-02T16:56:00.000-08:00

When I first met this couple I just knew I had to photograph their wedding! They were SO FUN right away and I knew their wedding would be just the same. Kimmie and Kevin are so outgoing, funny, witty, and totally adorable together. Their love for each other is apparent the first time you meet them. They just beam at each other and are always holding hands and snuggling up to each other. They made my life easy during this photo session. Their passion for each other was easy to capture, and I think Kevin might want to take off to NYC to start his modeling career :-). This couple loves photography too and thats ALWAYS a fun combination, they were up for whatever it took to get the shot. I also loved that they got engaged in St. Augustine, and decided to choose it for their engagement session location. I love when couples chose a location that has a special meaning to them. Thanks soooo much Kimmie and Kevin!! I can't wait until May!!

How hot is this couple?

We ended Kimmie and Kevin's session at the winery, a fitting place since the couple share a love of food and wine.

Addie is 1!!

2010-03-01T22:10:00.000-08:00

Here is how I feel about this family. I ADORE THIS FAMILY! I met Marnie and Brian years ago while visiting my very good friends Jen & Clay at their home in Hawaii. Brian and Clay were stationed on Oahu together, and had actually deployed together as well and Marnie and Jen were very good friends. I liked them as soon as I met them in Hawaii. Down to earth, fun, good people. As luck would have it when my friends Jen and Clay were moved to North Carolina, so were Brian and Marnie!! Which is so fantastic, because they got to continue their friendship in the same town! This time with babies! While I was in North Carolina visiting my friends I photographed Brian and Marnie and their sweet girl Addie when she was just 3 or 4 months old. I was so honored to know that they loved their photos so much that Marnie decided to fly me up to North Carolina to photograph their family again, while Brian was home on R&R from his deployment overseas. I loved that they wanted images of them together, and I loved that they took the time, in the very short 15 days they had together to document their love for each other. The meaning behind that is not lost on me. I just love this family. Brian, I am so glad I could photograph you and your sweet family while you were home. Thank you so much for what you do for all of us, and most importantly come home safe!!!

This is definitely a baby who is VERY happy to have Mommy and Daddy home together.

See, I told you, very happy to have them home together.

I will leave ya'll with a classic out take ;-)

Let's hear it for New York....

2010-03-01T10:52:00.000-08:00

I was so excited when I was asked to photograph a corporate function in New York City. This was no ordinary corporate event. This was a weekend getaway for ladies only as a client appreciation celebration. There's nothing more inspiring then being surrounded by women who are really great at what they do. Here are a few highlights from the awesome trip I took at the beginning of February.

The weekend started out with a self defense class. I had never taken one of these classes before, and it was super empowering, did you know all the items in the bottom left photo can be used as weapons?

Lunch at the Mandarin Oriental, overlooking Central Park, and the amazing Janet Hanson, creator of 85 Broads (an awesome global women's networking group) spoke about lifes challenges and how having a strong network of women can help you through them.

We headed out on a tour of the Garmet District, where we visited a jewelry shop and watched how they create their pieces, and watched them putting the finishing touches on the pieces Tory Burch was using for her runway show the next weekend.

My favorite stop in the Garmet District! MOOD!!

Dinner at the Amazing STK in the meatpacking district.

Nothing says NYC more then a Cosmo, or a hot bartender ;-)

Makeovers at Saks!

Most Amazing tour guide I have ever seen...

Dinner at Gordon Ramsay at the London

I still can't believe I got to see Angela Lansbury & Catherine Zeta-Jones on perform on the same stage.

Product Highlight - Custom Disc Cases!

2010-02-24T18:09:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to introduce my new FAVORITE product! Custom disc cases!! In the digital age I think its really nice to have somewhere beautiful to display your disc of images! I am now offering complimentary custom disc cases for all wedding image disc purchases! You can also purchase a custom disc case for your portrait sessions for an extra fee.

Disc cases come in either a single or double case.

As well as a custom imprinted spine!

Hillarys Baby Shower & Baby Bump!

2010-02-12T13:00:00.001-08:00

I headed down to Orlando a few weekends ago to photograph Hillary's baby shower and her baby bump as well! Hillary and I go way back, like, elementary school back when our Mom's used to teach together. I've known Hillary for a while, and our Mother's always kept us up to date on the happenings in each others lives and when I found out Hillary was expecting I was SUPER excited. I knew that Hillary was going to be an amazing Mommy. So, when she asked me to cover her baby shower and grab some quick shots of her baby belly while I was down there of course I said Yes!!! I love photographing events like showers and birthday parties. Everyone always says what a relief it is to just enjoy their parties and not worry about taking lots of photos themselves. Hillary thanks so much for having me! It was so good to see you again. Judging from all the joy this baby boy has already brought into your life, he's going to be an amazing addition to your life.

Hillary's shower was held at the cutest tea room in Orlando, lots of yummy tea and treats!

Loved all the adorable guests!

After the shower I headed over to Hillary's for a little mini session to show off that baby bump!

Of course we had to include Hillary's first baby, Sampson!

I just love this shot of Hillary and her niece, Delaney, who is SO excited to meet her new cousin!

Hillary, your such a beautiful Mommy!!! Can't wait to meet Tread!

Sweet Baby Andrew! {Jacksonville Children's Photographer}

2010-02-09T08:42:00.001-08:00

This sweet boy made my job so easy a few weeks ago! Andrews is 6 weeks old and a bundle of cuteness. He's so alert, and wouldn't take his eyes off my camera, which I LOVE! His Mommy and Daddy are also some of the sweetest I've met in a while, and the funniest! I laughed so hard at their session. Andrew, you have an awesome set of parents who love you so much!!! Thank you for sharing Andrew with me K. Family!!

I Love that little Andrew gave a fist pump when his Mommy and Daddy smooched ;-)

I love a little boy whose not afraid to snuggle with his Daddy!

Brittney & David are married!

2010-01-31T14:30:00.000-08:00

Where to start with Brittney and David. Passionate, in love, wrapped up in each other, supportive, caring, fun, just a few of the things I think of while I was editing this gorgeous couples wedding. I knew Brittney when she was a little girl, we used to car pool to cheerleading practice, and there was always something fantastic about her. She was always warm, and compassionate, and so so sweet. Although I haven't seen Britt in years, none of those qualities had changed. I was even more excited when I met David. David is a true gentleman, and love Brittney more than anything. My heart almost burst when I was photographing Britt at the alter of the church and David leaned over and told her "you look so beautiful tonight". Warning, this is going to be a long post!! Britt and David, thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your big day!!

Love this shot of Brittney and her sister getting their makeup done!

The Bride and her pup Lucy!

Britt and David got married Gasparilla weekend, so I took the opportunity to play with some Pirate goodies for their ring shots!

This dress was AMAZING, I still am not sure how tiny little Brittney wore that heavy dress all day, but it was breathtaking!

Loved the bridesmaids reaction to Brittney in her dress...

Beautiful bride...

Going to the Chapel...

Brittney and David were married in a beautiful evening ceremony at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, loved this image of their priest praying with them.

Love first dances

Especially first dances at the beautiful Avila Country Club

Best cake cutting ever, David was such a good sport!

Love these of Brittney dancing with her new father in law.

David had to work hard to get the garter...

So he was proud of it once he got it!

Total Party

Since Britt and David had such a late ceremony, there wasn't much time for lots of photos of the two of them, so we headed out the next day for an after session!

and they lived happily ever after...

Cade at 3 months!! {Jacksonville Children's Photographer}

2010-01-28T13:30:00.000-08:00

Remember this guy? I was so excited when Cade's Mommy decided she wanted to photograph Cade every 3 months, throughout the first year of his life. I love baby's first year clients, mostly for selfish reasons. I LOVE LOVE LOVE watching these little ones grow. Its so fun when their Mommy's open up the door and another 3 months have gone by, and there they are, even more adorable then the last time I saw them!!! Cade's Mommy is so sweet, and it is so obvious how much this little man is loved. Without further ado, here is sweet Cade at 3 months.

Love this shot of Cade and his Daddy!

Cutest outfit ever!

7 minutes...

2010-01-25T18:06:00.000-08:00

Abbey is the sole reason today why I am a wedding photographer, and probably even a photographer at all. I met Abbey almost exactly 2 years ago, but I feel like she has been in my life forever. Abbey was one of those friends that I just connected with right away. I had always had a passion for photography, since I was old enough to look at photos I loved everything about them. The image, the process in taking them, the memory that you get to hold on to forever. I was so excited to have a friend that was a successful photographer and I started picking Abbey's brain immediately. She gave me a few quick tips, and I decided to invest in a good manual digital camera. I had shot manual in film, but never really taught myself the basics. Inspired by Abbey's beautiful photos I jumped into the world of photography full force. I started photographing friends and their children, and then quickly grew my business with all my amazing clients. I loved what I was doing so much I didn't want to stop there. I wanted to learn all about wedding photography. I went right to the source with Abs and she took me under her wing whole-heartedly. She invited me to second shoot a wedding with her and I was beyond hooked. I was so nervous that day, but Abbey had 100% faith in me. She gave me the confidence I needed and the support of a true friend. Abbey gave me a chance to learn from her, she taught me how she organizes weddings, how she talks with potential brides, how she designs albums, and works in photoshop. She is in every sense of the word a mentor, and a friend. In the last 2 years Abbey and I have not talked about just photography, we've gotten to be true friends, and its so great to have someone that just understands you. When Abbey and I shoot together we complete each others thoughts. I believe we are an awesome team, and I am such a better person for knowing her. I was so excited when Ab asked me to photograph her sweet family. I was there when she was VERY newly pregnant helping her cover a wedding amongst morning sickness and severe fatigue, and there as well when she was VERY close to delievering, again, helping her shoot a wedding, so I felt like I watched little Presley grow. Pres is the sweetest baby girl I've ever held. Complete with her Mommy's curls already!!! I loved watching Abbey and Drew with Presley. While I was staying with Abbey a few weekends ago we had a late night talk, and she told me all about how amazing it was to have Presley. How her life was changed the minute she gave birth to that beauty, how she feel in love with Drew all over again when she saw him holding his baby girl when she was born. I sat there and cried at the emotion of it all. Its so amazing to watch someone love the people in their life so intensely. It also showed me exactly what I want in my future as well. They are already so entrenched in each other that its amazing to watch. Ab, thank you so much for trusting me with your families images you all mean SO much to me, and Drew (who only gave me 7 minutes to photograph them) I hope it wasn't to painful ;-) Love yall!!!

Allison & Jeff are married! { Tampa Wedding Photographer}

2010-01-14T15:55:00.000-08:00

I headed down to Tampa last weekend to photograph this gorgeous couple's wedding. Allison and Jeff had a beautiful ceremony and reception at Palma Ceia United Methodist Church in Tampa, the perfect setting for their big day! After photographing this wedding I have learned a few things. 1. Allison is a beautiful bride, 2. Kids love candy bars, 3. Allison and Jeff's daughter Chloe is just about the cutest kid ever, and 4. Its a really special thing to watch a family celebrate their love for each other. Allison and Jeff, thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your special day, it was an honor!

Loved the details on Allison's dress

Chloe really enjoyed watching her Mommy get ready for the wedding. Although, she did ask "Whats happening to your hair" during the process. No better time to learn what it takes to be beautiful! :-)

I think Chloe also enjoyed having her hair done...

I had some fun with their rings, the bobby pins are a little shout out to Allison's profession as a hair stylist.

Allison and Jeff decided to see each other before the wedding, which I LOVE. We were able to get lots of great natural light photos before the sunset.

The handsome Groom

I love this series. I love that while smiling for a photo sometimes you just have to twirl your dress :-)

Love this shot of Allison and her Daddy...

Told ya kids love candy bars...

And they lived happily ever after...

Lindsey & Jimmy are Engaged! {Jacksonville Wedding Photographer}

2010-01-14T09:10:00.000-08:00

I just love Lindsey and Jimmy. So in love, so excited to marry in August, so happy to just be near each other. This is my sweet law school couple. Before their wedding in August they will be graduating from law school, taking the bar, looking for jobs, getting married, and moving to South Carolina!!! I kept telling them their honeymoon will be a much needed vacation!!! Lindsey and Jimmy and I had a blast at their engagement session, we started the photos in the town Lindsey grew up in, then headed to a super fantastic park for some more causal photos. In between I pulled over and made then climb through tall grass to get some fantastic field shots. I love that my clients go willingly into strange locations when I promise them cool photos. Lindsey and Jimmy, I can't wait to see you in August!!!

The Bling!

Aren't they a sweet family!

Sweet Ellie Ann! Newborn Photographer

2010-01-11T10:40:00.000-08:00

Little Ellie Ann, such a sweet sleepy girl she was! I drove into Orlando last week to photograph little Ellie Ann and her amazing parents. I walked in and have never felt more welcome at someone's home. I instantly felt like I had known this family for years. Little Ellie Ann was a Christmas Eve baby, and what an awesome gift she is!!! Lots of photos of this little angel. Whit and Nicole, thank you so much for sharing her with me!!! She is absolutley precious!

Possibly my favorite "family" shot of all time. This is a family after my own heart with their sweet Golden girl Lexy.

Can't forget Whit and Nicole's first babies...

Told you this Christmas Eve baby made an awesome gift!!

Baby Ellie Ann - Sneak Peek!!

2010-01-05T13:29:00.001-08:00

Just a few for Ellie Ann's Mommy and Daddy. More to come soon!

Jenn & Bryan are engaged!!! Jacksonville Wedding Photographer

2010-01-04T10:22:00.000-08:00

The first time I met Jenn and Bryan I KNEW I had to photograph their wedding. Sometimes you feel like you just "get" a couple, and that's exactly how I felt with these two. They were fun, and in love, and crazy excited about spending the rest of their lives together. We giggled and laughed and I left our meeting praying that I would get to photograph their big day! My very good friend even called me while I was on the way home from our meeting and I remember gushing about how their wedding would be so great and I believe her words to me were "Don't get attached, they haven't booked you yet". Attached is just what I am after our engagement session. Bryan had me cracking up and the way Jenn just beams at him warmed my heart. It was so easy to capture them together. They are a perfect pair and I cannot wait until April when they tie the knot! Jenn and Bryan, thank you so much. I am honored to be a part of your big day!!

To see more become a fan on facebook!!! There were just to many to choose from!

Lindsey & Jimmy - Sneak Peek!

2010-01-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to give these two lovebirds a little sneak peek!! So many more to come!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-30T12:27:00.000-08:00

2009 was quite a year. Oh 2009, where to begin. You've been a year of ups and downs that's for sure! In 2009 I photographed many, many children, newborns, baby bumps, newly engaged couples and just married couples! That was an up. In the way of the downs however after 3 years of corporate event planning I was laid off from my full time job. That was a very scary time, and still is. Although the saying when one door closes another opens is sort of an understatement! I realized pretty quickly that someone was telling me "Get yourself in gear, turn your part time job into something full time, build your website, design your business cards, update your blog, get your calendar booked, put your heart out into the world and pray that your dreams will come true". Well, they have. Thanks to all of the amazing clients that have come into my life this year. All those beautiful newborn smiles I photographed, the giggling kiddos, and the sweet mommies to be. All of the "with this ring"s and "you may now kiss the bride"s that I've had the pleasure of hearing this year have been unreal. To those photographers out there who took me under your wing, allowed me to come along and learn from the best and allowed me to take those awesome lessons home to put into my own business, thank you. To all my Bride's and Grooms out there for 2010, thank you for believing in me and allowing me to photograph the most important day of your new lives, thank you. Its such an honor. For all my families that have brought your sweet, sweet children into my lives, and let me hug and snuggle them and document their adorableness all at the same time, Thank you. For all of my amazing clients who forwarded on my information, who told their friends "You HAVE to book Jenn Hopkins" thank you. To everyone of you who read my blog, and comment on my facebook photos, thank you. ( On a side note, I think my favorite things ever are facebook comments, and when clients make my images their profile pics!) Your support means more than you all will ever know. While the road is still bumpy, and the future is not always set in stone like it was in my "previous life" I have never been more happy or fulfilled in my entire life. I could just burst from all the love you all have added to my life and all the amazing moments I've gotten to see because of my camera. I am more then looking forward to what 2010 will bring! Thank you, and I hope your 2010 will be just as amazing!

The L. Family!

2009-12-30T12:09:00.000-08:00

I don't even know where to begin with this little family. Faeryn and Simany are 2 of the sweetest sisters EVER! Within minutes of meeting me they were holding my hand, telling me "Please don't go", showing me their best ballet moves (and we all know I am a sucker for dance moves) and telling me all about their favorite stories. So much personality in these two it was over flowing.I just wanted to take them home with me so I could hear them giggle even more! L. Family, thank you so much for sharing your girls with me. You are raising incredible little ladies!

The H. Family!

2009-12-30T11:24:00.000-08:00

I am almost done posting all my Christmas sessions, good thing since Christmas is over! I can't believe it came and went so fast! Todays post is all about the awesome H. Family. These little guys were one of my very first blog posts. I practiced on them when little Gavin was just a new little guy! Now he's a big man, running around making me chase after him. Sweet Drew, the big brother, is such an awesome kid. He loves little Gavin so much and is an excellent helper at getting Gavin to giggle. Thanks so much H. Family! I hope your Christmas was amazing!

Marcus! Jacksonville Children's photographer

2009-12-22T11:36:00.001-08:00

So excited to photograph Marcus. Marcus is the third and oldest brother in a family of boys that I have been photographing this year. Their Mom decided to do an individual photo session of each boy on thir birthday. I love this idea. Not only because you get lots of photos of your kids, but because they make it a special day with just them and their Mama. I believe there was a Sonic slushy date after this session :-)Marcus is such a fun kid. I love little boys this age. I also love that all I have to do for these guys is say things like "Booger" or "Monkey Butt" and I get TONS of giggles. Yes, there is no shame in my photography when Kiddos are involved.

My personal favorite. Marcus liked to make "monster faces" for my camera, here is his finest work.

Jenn & Bryan - Sneak Peek!

2009-12-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

Here's a little sneak peek of the hotness that was yesterdays engagement session!!! Jenn and Bryan, ya'll are rockstars!!!! More to come soon!

Sweet Leena! Jacksonville Child Photographer

2009-12-17T20:42:00.000-08:00

Sweet, busy little Leena! Leena is everything you want in a 2 yr. old. Full of personality, sweet, loving, snuggly, and sassy all at the same time. Oh, and stylish!!! When I saw Leena walk up to me in little bitty Ugs I thought I would squeal. This lady melted my heart everytime we would walk from one location to another, she would grab my hand. She even raced around the Christmas tree and would give me a giant hug! I could've eaten her up. Karrie and Rich your baby girl is precious. So beautiful and so full of spirit! Shes going to be a heart breaker in a few years :-)

Told you she's a beauty!

Love this one, makes me remember the magic that Christmas is all about...

The S. Family!!

2009-12-17T11:57:00.000-08:00

I was beyond excited when Kim contacted me to photograph her family for their annual Christmas cards!!! Kim and I go way back to college sorority days. Kim was the very best friend of my "great-grand big sister" Tiffany. I used to look up to them so much! I remember how mature and beautiful on both the inside and out they both were. I loved their friendship, and as a freshman at a huge college like UF I couldn't wait to find what they had. Back then a friend and I affectionately nicknamed them Tiffy and Kimmy. So Kimmy, it was so great to see you and your amazing family!!! You all are so amazing and I am so glad to see how happy your are!!

Check out how adorable their baby boy Michael is!

On another side note, Kim's husband is also the brother of my AWESOME college roomie Allison. Allison, if your out there, your brother is such an awesome Daddy!!!

"Kimmy" your family is amazing and you shine as a Mommy!!! Thank you so much for sharing them with me.

The Awesome K. Family! Jacksonville family photographer

2009-12-16T10:25:00.000-08:00

A little behind on blogging! I am now officially done with Christmas Card Season 2009so I have a little time to blog all the families I photographed in the last few weeks! The awesome K. family (who you may recognize from my blog header) decided to update their photos for this years Christmas Cards! I love repeat clients. I love watching their little ones grow! Colin has grown up so much since I've seen him last. He was running and giggling and so much fun to chase around for photos. This family loves each other so much. I love watching Colin's Mom and Dad look at him and giggle. The love in their eyes is easy to capture! Thank you K. Family! Hope to see you again soon!

It's been so long since I've posted an "out-take", but this was too good not to post. Sorry K. Family!!! The best part of this photo, is not what Colin is up to, which is typical at this age, but the reaction of his parents :-). This is why I love them!

I Heart Faces - Sweet Dreams Photo Contest!

2009-12-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

The Super fun site I heart faces is having a weekly contest and the theme is "Sweet Dreams". How could I not enter Mr. Parker!!!!!! So, here he is. Sweet, sleepy, Parker. Head over to I Heart Faces to check out all the entries!

Martina &Ryan - Over the moon! {Maternity Photographer]

2009-12-08T13:12:00.000-08:00

I'm not even sure where to begin with Martina and Ryan's blog post. I love my clients, thats no secret, and I always profess my love for them publicly everytime I blog. This couple though, grabbed my heart from the moment I first got an email from Martina. She was so complimentary of my work and couldn't wait to schedule a session to document her growing baby bump! I immediatley loved her. The excitement she was feeling was delievered to me via email that day, and I can still feel it!!! Martina told me during the session that she had wanted to be pregnant her whole life. This is something Martina and I share. Which made my connection with her even stronger. While I am still waiting for my prince charming and my babies, Martina has found hers and they are counting down the days until their sweet girl is with them! Martina and Ryan are a total package. Loving, passionate, and in the words of an album she has on her facebook page "over the moon" while waiting for the arrival of their little lady. Their love for each other, and their growing baby wasn't hard to capture, because it just pours out of them. Its infectious. I hugged them both so tight when I left them because I am so honestly excited for them and their new phase of life. Martina and Ryan, I feel like I have known ya'll for years!!! Thank you for letting me document such a personal and exciting part of your lives!!!

Martina told Ryan that she was pregnant in a super fun way! She left the positive pregnancy test in a pocket of Ryan's other baby...his pool table :-)So we had some fun with the pool balls, this is Miss Emma's estimated date of arrival.

To view more amazing images become a fan on facebook by clicking here!

Baby Giana {Jacksonville Newborn Photographer}

2009-12-03T20:14:00.000-08:00

I was so excited when Corey and Dana contacted me to photograph their newest addition to their family, Baby Giana and her bis sis Maddie! Thanks to the power of facebook I was able to reconnect with Corey and Dana recently and I am so thankful. Corey was my boss at my very first "adult" job right out of college. I ran kids programs at a local Country Club and as a boss I couldn't have asked for anyone better. Corey gave me free reign to run all of my programs and trusted my decisions. He knew that I loved those kids so much and would never do any thing that didn't make them happy. He never even looked at me funny when I told him things like "we NEED to make forts for the kids" or "we MUST have an American Girl Tea Party and purchase REAL china cups for the kids". I was so excited to finally meet his 2 little ones! I knew he would be a great Dad, and Dana an equally awesome Mom. Corey and Dana, thank you so much for letting me photograph your little ladies. They are precious!

Who can resist a smiley baby...

Hello Bombshell.... {Jacksonville Boudoir Photographer}

2009-11-30T20:48:00.000-08:00

I was beyond excited when Katie called and asked me to take some Boudoir photos of her for a gift for her husband Tyler. I had such a good time laughing and giggling with this old friend of mine. We spent hours dressing Katie in the most amazing lingerie, all to make her hubby's 30th birthday unforgettable! Thanks Katie for being such an awesome model!! (and for letting me post these images, they are too beautiful for people not to see!)

Go Gators ;-)

Martina & Ryan Maternity Sneek Peak!

2009-11-30T20:13:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek from my session this evening. So many more to come!!

Mark and Jenni are Married!! {Jacksonville Wedding Photographer}

2009-11-24T19:56:00.001-08:00

One of the first things Jenni told me was "I waited my whole life for this man". In those few words I could tell alot about the bride to be. That she was in love. Head over heels, nothing else in the world matters but marrying the man of my dreams kind of love. I have never seen a bride so happy/thrilled/emotional/overjoyed to be walking down the aisle towards her soul mate. Then I turned to Mark, standing at the front of the church, waiting for her with tears of happiness as she walked toward him. Jenni and Mark were such an awesome couple. From the stories they told at their reception it was clear they had both kissed lots of frogs in their lives and knew exactly what they had found in each other the moment they met. They are mature and wise and they both knew exactly what they wanted in a partner, each other. Jenni and Mark's wedding was a small, intimate affair that took place at the Baughman Center in Gainesville. I love these type of weddings because they were able to thank everyone personally in a toast for coming to their wedding, and for playing a role in the path that had lead them both to this point.

Have you ever seen a Bride so happy!!

The Groom and his Best Man

Again, happiest Bride ever.

And they lived happily ever after...

Thank you SOO Much to Lindsey of Pure Photography for letting me second shoot!! Your the best Lindsey!

The C. Family! {Jacksonville Portrait Photographer}

2009-11-24T12:58:00.000-08:00

I think my very favorite thing about doing what I do is meeting all the amazing families and children that I get to photograph. Sitting in a cube all day in my previous life I never got to make the connections I get to make now. Its so funny because while I may only spend an hour or two with these families, I feel like I have known some of them forever. My clients welcome me into their homes and lives with open arms and allow me to photograph the most important moments, and people in their lives. I leave with a full heart and, my most favorite thing to leave with, hugs. Hugs were definitley not popular while working in corporate America. This family is no exception. I could've taken little Carrie home with me, she was so full of personality and love and sweet little Wes and all his giggles.

Sweet Carrie was so full of smiles. I wish I could bottle them up!

Love these quiet moments. I feel like these are the moments parents will want to remember once their little ones turn into teenagers.

More sweet moments with Mommy and Wes.

Thanks so much for letting me into your lives C. Family!! Hope to see you all again soon!

Joshua & Michaela - Jacksonville Childrens Photographer

2009-11-23T19:46:00.000-08:00

I just love these two. Joshua was one of my very first posts here on the blog, you may remember him as the cutest hockey player ever. His cuteness cannot be outdone by Miss Michaela's adorableness either! I've known these kids for quite a few years and this is the second time I've done their Christmas card photos. I love how much they like to pose and smile for me and my camera. Their love for each other is so genuine, I hope they are always this close. Cahren and Jon, thank you so much for sharing your little ones with me. They've grown so much since I first meet them! When Joshua was showing me his magic tricks at the Avenues Mall. Your both doing such a great job raising 2 of the sweetest kiddos out there!

Joshua is an awesome hockey player, and big sister Michaela is an awesome ice skater. These two and their parents spend so much time at the ice rink they thought some of their photos should reflect that!

The best part about this little series, Joshua did this all on his own. With no suggestions by me. He loves his sissy.

Product Highlight - Storyboards!

2009-11-20T09:23:00.000-08:00

I have had so many clients tell me "I just can't decide between these photos". My remedy, storyboards! I LOVE storyboards. They allow you to combine many photos into one print, or product and create a story with your images! I decided to show you a few samples of storyboards.

One of my personal favorite storyboards, is a details board! So many Bride and Grooms spend SO much time on all their wedding details and then never quite know what to do with all the photos of them. I think its a great idea to print a 10x10 print of all your details to frame to have at your home to remember that awesome day!

Baby Rian - Jacksonville Newborn Photographer

2009-11-17T15:32:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to meet baby Rian! Rian's friends purchased a gift certificate for his family as a "Welcome Baby" gift which I thought was such an awesome idea! If you are thinking of a great Christmas present for friends or loved ones let me know! Portrait sessions make great gifts :-) I could've photographed Rian for days, his family had the most beautiful furniture that had been shipped in from India and I photographed him on all of it :-) Thanks Rian for being such a sweet little man! Cant wait to watch you grow!

Loved these shots of Rian and his cousin...

Canvas or Standouts?

2009-11-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

Two of my VERY favorite products are Gallery Wrapped Canvas products and a cool product called Standouts. I decided to dedicate a post to explaining the difference in the two for all my clients! You can't go wrong with either option, I think it just comes down to what you want aesthetically in a product.

First up, the standout.

This is actually a storyboard canvas (more about storyboards in another blog post). this particular standout is a 16x20 storyboard, which allows me to use more then one photo. A standout is a little more economical then a canvas option, and has a very clean modern look. Printed on fine quality, archival photographic paper, mounted on thick 1.5" lightweight board, and then finished off with a thin black or white frame around the edges to look amazing from any angle.Standouts make photo wall arrangements easy. They come in many sizes, and I really love when clients have had multiple square standouts printed and hang them gallery style in their home.

The best part about standouts, is that they come with holes already in the back ready to be hung! No framing required.

I absolutley love Gallery wrapped canvas. I can't tell you how many times I see images and I say, if this were my child I would have this in a 24x36 canvas! I love seeing images huge, and there is no better way to see them large then in a canvas.My canvas company specializes in custom made gallery-wrapped canvas prints, offering over 5,000 custom sizes between 6"x6" to 60"x100". Every print is sprayed with a UV coating and meticulously stretched around a 1.5" thick frame.

This particular print is an 11x14 of sweet baby Parker. As you can see, one of the main differences between a stand out and a gallery wrapped canvas is that the image is wrapped around the canvas stretcher frame.

They also come with a wire hanger standard on the back of all prints. You can also choose to have the image backed with paper and sawtooth hangers.

Stay tuned for more about storyboards! All options make awesome Holiday gifts for Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, or yourself!

This little light of mine...

2009-11-10T16:58:00.000-08:00

Joe's Grandma said it best when she said "He walks into a room and lights it up". I don't think I have ever seen a boy with such light and love in his eyes. He takes every drop of the world in with ease and laughter and gives out kisses and snuggles to everyone who is near him. I know that some of this is just ingrained in his personality, but I also know he has some amazing parents. Joe's Mommy is one of my favorite and dearest friends and every time I watch her as a Mom I am blown away by how natural she is at it. Jen, thank you for letting me capture this little man, I wish I could bottle him up so I could always have him near. I love him (and you) so much!

Joe, I hope you always let that little light shine, xoxoxo

Lorelei is 6 months!!

2009-11-08T17:39:00.000-08:00

I am SO behind on my blog! Christmas Card season is in full swing and my little blog has been neglected. I'm working hard to update it! I had to post sweet Lorelei's 6 month session. Lorelei is on my baby's first year plan, we photograph her every three months to capture how much she's changed and what she's learning! It is so much fun to see her grow. I'm VERY attached to this little family and I love to see what Lorelei has discovered each time I see her. To Lorelei's family, thank you so much for sharing her with me!

You might recognize this little elephant from Lorelei's 3 month session. Many things change with little ones in their first year, but many things stay the same. Like the way they love their elephants.

It's all about the details...

Sneak Peek! {Jacksonville Children's Photographer}

2009-11-04T21:51:00.001-08:00

A sneak peek of my favorite man Joe! Oh....how I love this man!!!

Baby Giana...Sneak Peek

2009-11-01T19:44:00.000-08:00

Sneak Peek for Giana and her family. More to come!

October Jax Shoot Out {Jacksonville Wedding Photographer}

2009-11-01T13:05:00.001-08:00

I was so excited to go to my first shoot out a few weeks ago. I had the best time meeting other photographers and walking all around Jax Beach with some adorable models capturing images. I am so looking forward to doing this more often!

All models makeup done by Paulina Perez, Hair by Sonia Garza.

Favorite.Image.Ever.

Happy Halloween!!

2009-10-29T18:56:00.000-07:00

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!!! Hope my little pumpkins get lots of treats this Halloween season!!

Love, Marriage and a Baby Carriage!

2009-10-25T20:50:00.000-07:00

The last time I saw Shannon she was walking down the aisle, glowing like every new bride, beaming at her fabulous new husband and basking in the glory of marrying the love of her life. Now Shannon is glowing for a whole new reason, she's about to be a MOMMY!!! I was so excited when Adam and Shannon asked me to photograph them at this really amazing time in their lives. You may recognize this couple from my blog header, my website and my business cards. Their wedding was so amazing, the love from these two could be felt from miles away. I wouldn't think it possible, but that love has multiplied. These two are so excited to meet their sweet baby boy in just a few months, and their love for him was apparent. Also apparent, their love for each other! Adam and Shannon, thank you so much for allowing me to capture this awesome time in your lives, your going to be awesome parents!!!

Oh how I miss living on the Gulf, there is nothing like warm sunsets...

Pictage Night Shoot

2009-10-21T20:56:00.001-07:00

I have been wanting to blog these photos forever, but I got so busy with client photos that these had to go on the back burner. Last month the Jacksonville PUG group hosted a night-shoot with fabulous model Cam! We had such a great time walking up and down the streets of St. Augustine after the sun set to take super fun images! Here are a few of my favorites from the night!

Cam even brought her man along for a few photos.